Susan and David – Keg Party

by Susan McInarnay

Most of my adult life I have dreamed of the day that I would travel to the country of my ancestry. It had been a lifelong dream of my father’s that unfortunately died with him. Having the opportunity to travel to Ireland with my sister Debby was truly like a dream come true. The country itself is some of the most beautiful that I have ever seen. From the “40 shades of green” to the Cliffs of Moher it is no wonder that all Irishmen that leave long to return to this place. We learned a lot about the history of this proud notion. We have a better understanding of the fortitude, sometimes called stubbornness, of our father and of ourselves. It can be traced to our Irish roots. The respect and love of the land is also a trait that lies within our heritage.

We had a lot of good “craic” (fun) while we were In Ireland. We ate potatoes at almost every meal. There was a song to be sung in the pub almost every night. The memories we made will be treasured for the rest of our lives. The trip was more than just a sightseeing tour for the “McInerney” girls. It was a voyage back to the place where our family began. A place where the people are proud to be Irish and truly mean it when they greet you with, “Cead Mile Fallte” a hundred thousand welcomes.

I feel fortunate that I had the opportunity to visit this wonderful country that has fought long and hard for independence. I feel a certain amount of sadness for all that these people have endured. Yet had it not been for the plight of my ancestors I may not have been born in a country where we take our freedom for granted and don’t truly appreciate all that we are blessed with each and every day. I am thankful for that freedom and for the courage that my great­grandparents exhibited so many years ago when they decided to make a new life in America and leave their beloved Ireland. I have returned to pay homage to them and their sacrifice.

Susan is a personal friend who has “trusted” me to take her on tours for many years. Her reflections on a recent trip to Ireland are moving and show how travel can affect one’s life. Irish Memories. – David